With 25 regular-season games remaining, the Sixers are 35-22 and fifth in the Eastern Conference standings. They are a league’s best 26-2 at home and 9-22 on the road, the worst record of any playoff team. The team’s remaining schedule is the easiest in the league.

Injuries: Ben Simmons is definitely out tonight against the Hawks and it’s doubtful that Tobias will play. This couldn’t come at a worse time for a team that is in desperate need of a run to increase their seeding in the playoffs.

We’ll take it one game at a time..

Tonight at home against the Hawks:

Sixers line is currently at -8.5 tonight at home against the Hawks. It seems like a lot for a team that’s without Simmons and Harris. Sixers obviously dominate at home and I fully expect to see Joel Embiid come out and take control of the game tonight. The only problem is Trae Young who has been absolutely on fire so the Sixers need to bring up the defensive intensity around the perimeter – even more so without Ben setting the tone.

Josh Richardson needs to shoot more. This might be uncharted waters for Josh but I would go bananas if he takes on a new role as “the scorer” in an offense who desperately needs help.

Joel Embiid takeover. As stated above. Joel needs to come out, show off, and talk shit at home tonight. We consistently see Joel at home, playing his best, when he’s having fun out there. Let it fly, big fella.

Alec Burks and GR3’s honeymoon is over. It’s time for them to step up and perform at a high-level tonight. Wouldn’t mind seeing Mike Scott get some minutes as well.

Brett…PLEASE if you’re thinking about giving Neto minutes. Don’t. Give them to Shake and Burks at the point and let’s ride.

Like I do every home game (I need help) – I’ll be taking Sixers at home -8.5 for AND the UNDER 228.5 Total Points. This will be a defensive game for the Sixers.

Unite or Die.

*** UPDATED 5:20PM  ***

Tobias Harris goes from “doubtful” to “available” for tonight. Another puzzling move by a medical staff who for whatever reason, can’t seem to figure out anything.

Ben Simmons still undergoing tests on his lower back. No update until Thursday. Message to Medical Staff: Start with tests on Ben’s lower back and take it from there.

Next Up: The Sixers head to Cleveland Wednesday Night.